My Lombok Duck Garden

22 April 2026 • Written by Ibu Antje

Nestled in a tranquil stretch of rich fields, with Mount Rinjani watching over me from behind and the ocean quietly in front, my little duck garden is where life feels simple and honest. This is where my mornings begin—with soft light, fresh air, and the gentle chatter of ducks already awake before me.
I never planned for any of this in a grand way. I just wanted something real to care for—something that would give back in its own time. And somehow, along the way, my ducks and I found our rhythm together. People started noticing—not because it is perfect, but because it is done with care, patience, and a lot of heart.
The Ducks I Raise: My Lombok Treasure
The ducks here are what we call Lombok local ducks, a beautiful mix of native Indonesian breeds, with a touch of Indian Runner elegance. They stand tall, always curious, always busy—honestly, a little bit like me.
Some are brown, some patterned, all blending so naturally into the fields that sometimes you only notice them when they move—or when they start talking (which they do, a lot).
What I love most about them:
They adapt easily, whether it’s wet season or dry
They are natural explorers, always searching for their own food
They are strong and independent
And they give the most flavorful eggs and meat
I let them live as they should. They walk, they wander, they choose their pace. No rushing, no forcing. Good things, I’ve learned, take their time.
How I Care for Them
My mornings are never rushed. I walk through the garden, sometimes talking to them (yes, I do), sometimes just watching.
I keep things simple:
Natural food—grains from nearby and whatever they happily find themselves
Space to move freely, because happy ducks are healthy ducks
Fresh, clean water—always
There is no strict system, no heavy structure. Just attention, routine, and respect.
Living Sustainably, Living Fully
Here, everything connects. What the ducks leave behind feeds the soil, and the soil keeps everything growing. It is a quiet cycle, but a beautiful one.
I also share this space and knowledge with the people around me. Farming, like life, feels better when it is shared.
From Garden to Table
The Lombok duck is something special in our kitchen. Cooked slowly, with spices that tell their own story, the flavor becomes deep, rich, and comforting.
When people taste it, they often go quiet for a moment. That is my favorite part.
A Little Experience for Our Guests
Many of our hotel guests ask me, “Can we feed the ducks?”
And the answer is—yes, of course, but gently and with a little guidance.
Feeding the ducks can be a lovely, quiet moment—especially in the morning or late afternoon when they are most active (and a bit chatty). I usually prepare the right food for them, so guests can join in without disturbing their natural diet.
It is not about throwing food or making noise—it is about slowing down, standing still for a moment, and letting the ducks come to you. Children especially love this, but adults often enjoy it just as much.
And if you listen closely, you might even hear them “talk back.”
Duck Facts & Answers (F&A)
Do ducks lay eggs?
Oh yes, and quite generously. My ducks can lay between 150 to 300 eggs a year. Their eggs are bigger than chicken eggs, with a richer taste—perfect for cooking or baking.
Can ducks hear?
Very well! Even if you can’t see their ears, they hear everything. Mine definitely know the sound of my footsteps—especially when food is involved.
What do ducks eat?
A little bit of everything:
Rice and corn
Fresh greens
Insects and tiny water creatures
And sometimes a little extra feed
They are not picky—but they do appreciate variety.
What do you call a male and female duck?
Male: Drake
Female: Hen
Baby: Duckling (the cutest, by the way)
How long does it take for a duck egg to hatch?
Usually around 28 days. But like many things here, it happens in its own time.
Why I Continue
There is something calming about this life. The rhythm, the routine, the small daily moments.
The ducks are not just part of my work—they are part of my days, my thoughts, even my conversations.

My little duck garden is a place of care, patience, and quiet joy.

Ibu Antje

I’m Ibu Antje; Founder, Owner and 'Chief of Magic' at The Lombok Lodge Hospitality®. With over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, I am passionate about creating meaningful and bespoke travel experiences across the breathtaking island of Lombok and the Gili Islands in Indonesia. My love for Lombok comes from the island’s breathtaking beauty, its rich traditions, and the warmth of its people. It inspires me every day to share this special place with others by creating meaningful and memorable experiences that allow guests to truly feel the spirit of Lombok and the Gili Islands. Follow my daily life in Lombok & Gili - and more things I adore - on Instagram @ibu.antje

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